The Best Seafood Restaurants Near Me: A Guide to Fresh Seafood

by Oleg Nikitenko December 06, 2024

The Best Seafood Restaurants Near Me

When it comes to seafood dining, not all restaurants are created equal. To ensure this guide highlights only the best, we used a rigorous grading system based on the following criteria:

Freshness of Seafood: Restaurants that source their seafood locally or from sustainable suppliers received top marks.
Menu Variety: Establishments offering a wide selection of crab, lobster, fish, and shellfish stood out.
Dining Experience: We considered ambiance, customer service, and attention to detail in presentation.
Reputation: Longevity, awards, and positive reviews from customers and food critics were heavily weighted.
Sustainability Practices: Restaurants that prioritize eco-friendly fishing and cooking practices were favored.

This guide includes restaurants with decades of history as well as newer spots making waves in the seafood scene. Let’s dive into the best seafood dining options in Washington, Oregon, and California!

Why These Places Made the List

The seafood restaurants listed here were selected based on their commitment to serving fresh, high-quality seafood in innovative and traditional ways. Many have deep roots in their communities, with some operating for over 50 years. These establishments also focus on creating memorable dining experiences while respecting sustainable practices, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the bounty of the ocean.

Famous Quote: “The secret to great seafood is freshness and respect for the ingredients.” — Thomas Keller

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Best Seafood Restaurants in Washington

1. Elliott’s Oyster House – Seattle, WA

Years in Business: Established in 1975, Elliott’s has over 45 years of experience serving fresh seafood.
Address: 1201 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
Reservation Contact: (206) 623-4340
Why It’s Great: Renowned for its waterfront views, Elliott’s Oyster House sources its oysters, crab, and fish directly from the Pacific Northwest.
Must-Try Dish: Dungeness crab cakes.

2. Taylor Shellfish Farms – Shelton, WA

Years in Business: Operating since the 1890s, this farm has been a staple of Washington’s seafood industry for over 130 years.
Address: 130 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton, WA 98584
Reservation Contact: (360) 432-3300
Why It’s Great: A pioneer in sustainable aquaculture, Taylor Shellfish is a must-visit for oyster and crab enthusiasts.
Must-Try Dish: Dungeness crab with garlic butter sauce.

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3. Salty’s on Alki Beach – Seattle, WA

Years in Business: Open since 1985, Salty’s is a family-friendly spot with an award-winning brunch.
Address: 1936 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126
Reservation Contact: (206) 937-1600
Why It’s Great: Offers panoramic views of Puget Sound and a diverse seafood menu.
Must-Try Dish: Alaskan king crab legs paired with a crisp Chardonnay.

Top Seafood Spots in Oregon

1. Jake’s Famous Crawfish – Portland, OR

Years in Business: A Portland institution since 1892, Jake’s is one of the oldest seafood restaurants in the U.S.
Address: 401 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
Reservation Contact: (503) 226-1419
Why It’s Great: Known for its elegant atmosphere and seasonal menu that highlights the freshest seafood.
Must-Try Dish: Dungeness crab cakes paired with Oregon Pinot Noir.

2. Mo’s Seafood – Newport, OR

Years in Business: Established in 1946, Mo’s has been serving its famous clam chowder for over 75 years.
Address: 622 SW Bay Blvd, Newport, OR 97365
Reservation Contact: (541) 265-7512
Why It’s Great: A casual spot with unbeatable views of the Pacific Ocean.
Must-Try Dish: Crab-stuffed halibut.

3. Local Ocean Seafoods – Newport, OR

Years in Business: Since 2005, Local Ocean has been committed to sustainable seafood practices.
Address: 213 SE Bay Blvd, Newport, OR 97365
Reservation Contact: (541) 574-7959
Why It’s Great: A dockside restaurant offering fresh, locally caught seafood.
Must-Try Dish: Grilled rockfish with Dungeness crab risotto.

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Must-Visit Seafood Restaurants in California

1. The Crab Cooker – Newport Beach, CA

Years in Business: Open since 1951, The Crab Cooker is a beloved fixture in Newport Beach.
Address: 2200 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Reservation Contact: (949) 673-0100
Why It’s Great: Combines a casual atmosphere with top-notch seafood.
Must-Try Dish: Dungeness crab cocktail.

2. Hog Island Oyster Co. – San Francisco, CA

Years in Business: Since 1983, this restaurant has been serving some of the finest oysters in California.
Address: 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111
Reservation Contact: (415) 391-7117
Why It’s Great: Known for fresh oysters and a crab and clam chowder that’s a customer favorite.
Must-Try Dish: Chilled crab platter.

3. Water Grill – Los Angeles, CA

Years in Business: Established in 1989, Water Grill is a go-to destination for seafood lovers in LA.
Address: 544 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Reservation Contact: (213) 891-0900
Why It’s Great: Offers live tanks to guarantee the freshest seafood.
Must-Try Dish: Steamed king crab legs with drawn butter.

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How to Make Reservations

Use platforms like OpenTable or call directly for availability.
Check for seasonal specials or prix fixe menus.
Plan ahead for weekends and holidays, as these restaurants are popular and often fully booked.

FAQs About the Best Seafood Restaurants

1. How do I know if a seafood restaurant serves fresh fish?

Look for transparency about sourcing, sustainable practices, and customer reviews highlighting freshness.

2. Can I request specific seafood dishes at these restaurants?

Yes, many establishments offer customized dishes or seasonal specials based on customer preferences.

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Learn More About Cooking Seafood

Want to recreate restaurant-quality dishes at home? Visit the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel for expert tutorials and tips.

Final Note: Whether you’re craving crab cakes, clam chowder, or grilled fish, these restaurants promise unforgettable experiences. Use this guide to explore the finest seafood dining in WA, Oregon, and California, or draw inspiration for your own home-cooked feast!